2Face Idibia Calls ‘African Queen’ a Blessing and a Burden Amid Fresh Billboard Recognition

|By Queen Banigo

Legendary Nigerian musician, Innocent Idibia, better known as 2Face, has described his timeless hit African Queen as both a blessing and a burden—despite being the song that launched him into global fame.

Speaking on a recent episode of the Entertainment & Lifestyle Show, the award-winning singer admitted that the 2004 track remains one of his most defining works.

“African Queen has been a very huge blessing, and e come turn to problem join for me. But I am grateful for everything,” 2Face said.

Released over two decades ago, African Queen catapulted 2Face to international stardom, earning him prestigious awards including BET, MTV Europe, and MOBO, making him one of Africa’s first globally recognized pop icons.

However, the song’s legacy has not been without controversy. 2Face’s former bandmate, Blackface, has repeatedly accused him of stealing the song—claims 2Face has consistently denied. He previously clarified that African Queen originated as a joint effort with his former group members but evolved into his solo breakout hit.

The long-running dispute resurfaced after Billboard recently named African Queen the “Greatest Afrobeats Song of All Time” in August 2025, reigniting public debate over its authorship.

Despite the controversies, 2Face maintains his gratitude, acknowledging the song as the spark that defined his musical journey and solidified his place in African music history.